International Justice Week, held last week, commemorated the establishment of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on July 17, 1998. This annual observance highlights the indispensable role that global judicial institutions, including the ICC and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), play in advancing justice, resolving international disputes, and ensuring accountability for serious crimes. Here’s an exploration of their impact and how the "Law Not War" initiative aims to celebrate their victories and strengthen international law institutions.

The Impact of International Judicial Institutions

1. Enforcing Accountability for Major Crimes

International Justice Week served as a powerful reminder of the ICC’s critical mission to hold individuals accountable for grave crimes such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. The ICC stands as a symbol of the global community’s commitment to justice, demonstrating that perpetrators of such crimes can be brought to justice regardless of their position or location. The week’s events reinforced the importance of maintaining robust mechanisms to confront and deter impunity.

The ICC operates within a broader framework of international cooperation and advocacy, prominently featuring the Coalition for the International Criminal Court (CICC). The CICC is a network of over 2,500 civil society organizations in 150 countries, dedicated to strengthening international cooperation with the ICC, ensuring that the Court remains fair and effective, and promoting greater support for international justice. The coalition works tirelessly to ensure that the ICC remains a viable and robust mechanism for confronting impunity and achieving justice for victims of the most heinous crimes.

The World Federalist Movement (WFM) has played a pivotal role in the establishment and ongoing support of the CICC. As one of the founding members of the coalition, the WFM has been instrumental in advocating for the creation of the ICC and continues to support its mission through various initiatives. The WFM's efforts include lobbying for broader ratification of the Rome Statute (the treaty that established the ICC), promoting awareness of the Court’s work, and advocating for stronger international legal frameworks to support the ICC's mandate.

The WFM-Canada has played a crucial role in collaboration with the global WFM, engaging in extensive advocacy and outreach to educate governments, organizations, and the public about the importance of the ICC. By fostering a deeper understanding of international justice, the WFM helps build a global consensus in support of the Court. Additionally, the WFM provides essential legal expertise and policy guidance to ensure that the ICC operates effectively and adheres to its founding principles. This includes contributing to the development of international legal standards and supporting initiatives that enhance the Court’s operational capabilities.

Through training programs, workshops, and conferences, the WFM builds the capacity of civil society organizations to engage with the ICC. By empowering local organizations, the WFM strengthens the global network of advocates for international justice. Furthermore, the WFM monitors the activities of the ICC, reporting on its progress, challenges, and achievements. This oversight ensures transparency and accountability, enhancing the credibility and effectiveness of the Court.

2. Facilitating Peaceful Resolutions

The ICJ, as the United Nations' primary judicial body, is instrumental in settling disputes between nations and providing advisory opinions on complex legal issues. Recent ICJ rulings, including those related to self-defense, environmental protections during conflicts, and territorial disputes, illustrate its critical role in shaping international law and promoting peaceful conflict resolution.

 A recent landmark opinion from the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) highlights the evolving role of international courts in addressing pressing global issues. ITLOS ruled on climate change in response to a request from the Commission of Small Island States on Climate Change and International Law. The Tribunal determined that the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) obligates its 169 member nations to take specific, concrete steps to prevent, reduce, and control marine pollution caused by greenhouse gas emissions. These measures must be informed by current scientific evidence, due diligence, and an ecosystem approach, marking the first instance where an international court has directly addressed countries' legal obligations to mitigate climate change.

This decision significantly advances the obligations of states concerning climate change beyond those required under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, emphasized that the ITLOS opinion will be crucial in combating inaction that has led to the brink of irreversible environmental disaster. Nikki Reisch, Director of the Centre for International Environmental Law, and Samira Ben Ali, Engagement Coordinator at World’s Youth for Climate Justice, further noted that this opinion clarifies that compliance with the Paris Agreement alone is insufficient and that states must adopt more rigorous measures.

Even more recently, during International Justice Week, the ICJ released its Advisory Opinion declaring Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories as illegal under international law. This ruling marks a pivotal moment in the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, reinforcing the legal consensus regarding the rights of the Palestinian people and the obligations of Israel as an occupying power. The official summary indicates that the General Assembly (GA) and the Security Council (SC) will contemplate additional measures to swiftly end Israel's unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. This includes an immediate halt to new settlement activities, the evacuation of all settlers from the occupied territories, and the provision of full reparations, restitution, and compensation to the Palestinians. WFM-Canada has taken a proactive stance by urging Canada to act in accordance with the ICJ’s Advisory Opinion and stand steadfast in support of international legal institutions.

The recent rulings from the ICJ and ITLOS underscore the evolving and indispensable role of international judicial bodies in addressing some of the most pressing issues facing our world today. They not only provide clarity and enforceability to international law but also set important precedents that guide global governance towards more just and sustainable outcomes.

3. Reinforcing Legal Standards

Both the ICC and ICJ play pivotal roles in upholding international legal standards. Their work ensures that nations adhere to established legal norms and that justice is achieved. These institutions underscore the principle that the rule of law should prevail over power and influence, reinforcing the global commitment to justice.

Advocating for 'Law Not War' 

The "Law Not War" movement advocates for resolving international conflicts through legal frameworks rather than military action. International Justice Week’s focus on the ICC and ICJ highlights the significance of legal approaches to conflict resolution. By promoting accountability and justice through these global courts, the "Law Not War" initiative aligns with the belief that legal solutions offer a more sustainable and ethical alternative to warfare.

As we reflect on the significance of International Justice Week, let us reaffirm our dedication to resolving global conflicts through the rule of law. Supporting international judicial institutions like the ICC and ICJ not only reinforces the principles of justice but also advances the goal of a more peaceful and just world.